Police File Case Against Lawyer for Alleged Molestation of Intern in Shillong

Shillong, India Jul 30, 2026 ALN: Police have registered a case against an advocate for allegedly molesting an intern in his office chamber at Keating Road. This incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and treatment of interns in the legal profession, highlighting the need for stringent measures to protect young professionals in vulnerable positions.

Speaking to reporters, SP (City) Dangsan Khyriem provided details about the case, which was officially filed on July 28. The police have registered the case under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, a legal framework that governs criminal offenses in India. This framework is crucial for addressing crimes such as sexual harassment and assault, and it provides a legal basis for the prosecution of such cases.

According to Khyriem, the complaint was submitted by a law intern who alleged that while she was in the company of her co-interns, the advocate called her into his chamber. It was there that he allegedly attempted to molest her. The intern reportedly resisted his advances and pushed him away, demonstrating her unwillingness to comply with his inappropriate behavior. This act of resistance is significant, as it underscores the importance of consent and the agency of individuals in such situations.

Furthermore, the intern claimed that the advocate insisted she come into a separate room, where he again attempted to molest her. This pattern of behavior raises alarming questions about the power dynamics often present in professional settings, particularly in fields where hierarchical structures can leave interns vulnerable to exploitation. Such dynamics are not uncommon in many professions, especially those dominated by male figures, where the fear of retaliation or damage to one's career can deter individuals from reporting misconduct.

In her complaint, the intern described how she raised an alarm and informed her friends about the incident, which is an essential step in seeking support and validation after experiencing such trauma. The act of informing peers can be a critical part of coping with harassment, as it can provide emotional support and a sense of community during a distressing time. This aspect of seeking support highlights the importance of social networks in the aftermath of harassment, as they can play a pivotal role in the healing process.

Additionally, the intern alleged that the lawyer later attempted to bribe her by offering money and insisting that she meet him again on the following Saturday. This alleged attempt at bribery highlights a troubling aspect of sexual harassment cases, where perpetrators may try to manipulate or coerce victims into silence, further complicating the dynamics of power and control. Such tactics are often employed by individuals who are aware of their position of power and attempt to exploit it to evade accountability.

“As per the written complaint, the accused allegedly tried to offer her money and insisted that she meet him again on Saturday,” the SP said. Such actions not only demonstrate a blatant disregard for the intern's autonomy but also indicate a potential strategy to undermine her credibility and deter her from pursuing the matter further. This manipulation is a common tactic in cases of harassment, where the perpetrator seeks to instill fear and compliance in the victim.

After the alleged incident, the intern reportedly left the premises in a distressed condition. This emotional turmoil is not uncommon in cases of sexual harassment, where victims may experience a range of psychological impacts, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. Recognizing the emotional and psychological effects of such incidents is vital for providing appropriate support to victims. Many survivors of harassment report feeling a loss of trust in their workplace and fear of future interactions with colleagues, which can affect their professional development and mental health.

Subsequently, the intern approached the police with her written complaint. This decision to report the incident is commendable and reflects a growing awareness among individuals about the importance of speaking out against harassment. It can also be indicative of a shift in societal attitudes toward such issues, where victims are increasingly encouraged to seek justice and hold perpetrators accountable. The act of reporting is often fraught with challenges, as victims may fear not being believed or facing backlash from their peers or superiors.

“After the incident, the complainant left in a distressed condition and informed her friends about what had happened. She subsequently submitted a written complaint, which was registered at Sadar Police Station as Sadar PS Case No. 265 under Sections 74 and 75 of the BNS,” the SP said. The registration of this case marks the beginning of a legal process that will involve thorough investigations and the collection of evidence to support the claims made by the intern. This process is crucial not only for the intern but also for setting a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.

The matter is currently under investigation, and police officials are in the process of recording statements from witnesses and involved parties. This investigative phase is crucial, as it will determine the course of legal action taken against the accused advocate. It is essential for law enforcement to approach this investigation with sensitivity and thoroughness, ensuring that the intern’s claims are taken seriously and that due process is followed. The integrity of the investigation will play a significant role in either reinforcing or undermining trust in the legal system, particularly among young professionals who may be hesitant to come forward with their own experiences.

This case is part of a broader conversation about workplace harassment, particularly in professions where power imbalances are prevalent. Legal settings often involve significant disparities in authority, where senior professionals may exploit their positions to harass junior colleagues or interns. The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved; it raises questions about the culture within legal professions and the measures that organizations and institutions must implement to protect interns and junior staff. A culture that tolerates harassment not only harms individuals but can also erode the integrity of the profession as a whole.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement advocating for safer workplaces and stricter policies against harassment. Many organizations are now implementing training programs and awareness campaigns to educate employees about consent, boundaries, and the importance of reporting misconduct. The outcome of this case could influence future policies and practices within legal firms, potentially leading to more robust protections for interns and a more supportive environment for young professionals. Such changes are essential in fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes respect and accountability.

As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial for the legal community and society at large to remain vigilant and supportive of those who come forward with allegations of harassment. The courage demonstrated by the intern in this case serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against sexual misconduct in all forms and the necessity for systemic change to ensure that such incidents are addressed effectively and justly. The collective responsibility to create safe environments for all professionals is paramount, and it requires a commitment from individuals, organizations, and policymakers to challenge and change the existing norms that allow harassment to persist.